Young people involved in band clubs across Malta and Gozo could benefit from a new European youth card offering access to international exchanges, development opportunities and European programmes, following discussions between Aġenzija Żgħażagħ, the European Youth Card Association (EYCA) and the Maltese Band Clubs Association.
The initiative was discussed during a conference entitled "Youth Conductors of Change," organised by Aġenzija Żgħażagħ in collaboration with the Band Clubs Association, a government statement said.
The conference, which was attended by officials from the agency, focused on creating further opportunities for young people involved in Maltese band clubs, including personal development, cultural exchanges with other youths from Malta and abroad, and greater participation in their communities.
As part of the initiative, Aġenzija Żgħażagħ has begun discussions with EYCA and the Band Clubs Association on the possible introduction of an EYCA x Band Clubs Card.
Through the proposed card, young band club members would be introduced to opportunities available through Erasmus+ Youth and the European Solidarity Corps, the statement said.
During the conference, representatives of feast organisations were also provided with information about various local and European funding schemes and programmes, including Erasmus+ and the European Solidarity Corps.
Discussions also focused on the role of Maltese feasts and their associated youth groups in strengthening communities and encouraging greater youth involvement in towns and villages.
Minister for Youth, Wellbeing and the Implementation of the Electoral Programme Omar Farrugia spoke of the importance of supporting young people who contribute to Malta's cultural traditions.
"While Maltese feasts and culture are truly close to our hearts, closer still are the youths who take part in these organisations and societies, and whose participation makes a real difference to their respective communities," Farrugia said.
He added that the government's objective was to continue providing young people with the necessary tools and opportunities to improve their wellbeing, strengthen their organisations and contribute towards building stronger communities.
Maria Borg, Aġenzija Żgħażagħ manager responsible for the conference, said the event provided an opportunity for the agency to engage directly with band clubs from across Malta and Gozo.
She said that the conference was intended not only to listen to the needs of these organisations but also to guide them towards available opportunities, including European initiatives such as Eurodesk, Erasmus+ and the European Solidarity Corps.